Hasanuddin University Students Participate in Student Exchange Program at Okayama University, Japan
A total of 12 students from Hasanuddin University (Unhas) participated in the Student Exchange for Undergraduate Program at Okayama University, Japan, which took place from December 13 to 19. This program was organized as part of Unhas’ effort to strengthen students’ international academic experience and cross-cultural learning. The participants arrived in Japan during the winter season , motivated by a strong sense of curiosity—about science, culture, and a wider world. The students involved came from various disciplines, including the Faculties of Dentistry, Medicine, Public Health (FKM), and Nursing. Representing FKM were Najmul Janna and Nur Aura Syafrawa Rifai. The group was accompanied by the Head of the Public Health Study Program, Dr. Hasnawati Amqam, SKM., M.Sc., who served as the mentoring lecturer to ensure that every activity led to tangible learning achievements. Academic and Cultural Immersion The students’ academic journey began immediately upon their arrival in Okayama, where they engaged in academic orientation, facility introductions, and dialogue with the local academic community. They had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the Japanese academic culture, researching ethos, and learning methods, which are known for being structured, disciplined, and collaborative. The learning process extended beyond classrooms and laboratories. The cities of Okayama and Osaka became “open classrooms,” allowing the students to closely observe the rhythm of Japanese life—from public spaces and cultural sites to daily practices that reflect values of punctuality, cleanliness, and mutual respect. This was where their cross-cultural communication skills were tested and enriched. Impact and Global Contribution The exchange program yielded profound benefits for the participants, going beyond just academic records. They returned equipped with the courage to adapt, cross-cultural sensitivity, and a more mature global perspective. This activity also affirmed Unhas’ contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically Goal 4 (Quality Education) and Goal 17 (Global Partnership). Furthermore, it supports the Higher Education Key Performance Indicators (IKU) related to off-campus learning experiences and collaboration with world-class partners. Moving forward, Unhas hopes the partnership with Okayama University will continue to grow, opening more doors for academic mobility and preparing graduates who are not only excellent in class but also ready to step onto the global stage.
Faculty of Public Health Unhas Confirms 38 Prospective Graduates for December 2025 Period
The Faculty of Public Health (FKM) at Hasanuddin University (Unhas) held an important commencement ceremony (Yudisium) in preparation for the December 2025 Graduation Period. This significant event took place on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at the Prof. Nur Nasry Noor Room (K-225), 2nd Floor of the FKM Unhas Building, and was attended by prospective graduates from various study programs. Yudisium is a crucial academic stage that officially marks the completion of the students’ entire educational process before they formally assume their academic titles. Through this activity, the faculty leadership formally established the graduation of students who have fulfilled all academic, administrative, and ethical requirements as mandated by the university. Messages and Hopes for the Graduates. In their address, the FKM Unhas leadership expressed high appreciation for the dedication and hard work demonstrated by the students throughout their studies. The prospective alumni are expected to be able to implement public health knowledge professionally and ethically, while always focusing on community service amidst the increasingly complex national and global health challenges. The culmination of the event featured remarks from the Dean of FKM Unhas, Prof. Sukri Palutturi, SKM., M.Kes., M.Sc.PH., Ph.D., who emphasized the importance of maintaining integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to service as the graduates begin their roles as public health professionals. Graduation Details and Achievements. The Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs of FKM Unhas, Dr. Wahiduddin, S.KM., M.Kes, reported that the faculty graduated a total of 38 individuals across three educational levels during this period. Details of graduates by level: Bachelor’s Program: Accounted for 20 graduates (53 percent of the total). Of this number, 2 people (10 percent) achieved the cumlaude predicate, while 18 people (90 percent) graduated with a very satisfactory predicate. Master’s Program: Graduated 12 individuals (31 percent). Six people (50 percent) achieved cumlaude and 6 people (50 percent) received a very satisfactory predicate. Doctoral Program: Saw 6 graduates (16 percent). Among them, 2 people (33.3 percent) earned cumlaude, and 4 people (66.7 percent) graduated with a very satisfactory predicate. Top Graduates Recognition. Based on the Dean of FKM Unhas Decree, three students were designated as the faculty’s top graduates for this period: Muh. Fauzan Idha (Bachelor’s – Occupational Health and Safety Department): Graduated cumlaude with a GPA of 3.93 and a study period of 3 years and 3 months. Nurjannah Husaeni (Master’s – Occupational Safety and Health Program): Achieved a perfect GPA of 4.00 and the cumlaude predicate within a study period of 1 year and 9 months. Sherly Wulandari (Doctoral – Public Health Science Program): Earned the cumlaude predicate with a GPA of 3.98, completing her studies in 2 years and 5 months. This commencement ceremony reaffirms FKM Unhas’ commitment as a higher education institution that actively supports Sustainable Development. The contributions of the graduates are expected to align with the achievement of SDGs, particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), by strengthening the health system and promoting equitable health services in the community.
“Waste to Worth”: FKM Unhas Holds Innovative Waste Management Expo and Workshop
On Monday, December 08, 2025, the Faculty of Public Health (FKM) at Hasanuddin University (Unhas) hosted a significant educational and innovative event titled “Waste to Worth: Expo & Workshop on Waste Management”. This activity was carried out as an integral part of strengthening academic learning and serving as a tangible contribution by students to environmental issues. Academic and Practical Collaboration,The event was a strategic collaboration between the students enrolled in the Environmental Health Technology course (Class of 2024) and the work program of the Environmental Health Communication Forum (FORKOM KL) of FKM Unhas. This collaboration provided a creative space for students to showcase innovations, learning media, and simple technologies that can be applied to waste management at various community levels. The activity was designed not only as an academic requirement but also as an effort to build awareness and capacity among the younger generation to support waste reduction and strengthen sustainable waste management practices. Innovation in Waste Processing Technology,The Expo session featured a diverse range of prototypes, teaching aids, and technology models for waste processing. The works displayed by the students included the handling of both organic and inorganic waste, all developed as a result of their learning and exploration of environmentally friendly technology. The exhibition atmosphere was highly interactive , with students presenting their creations and receiving various constructive feedback that will enrich the future development of their waste processing technologies. The exhibition is expected to be a platform for the exchange of ideas, inspiration, and innovation, thereby encouraging the widespread application of simple technology by the broader community. Workshop for Applied Skills Enhancement, In addition to the expo, the event also featured a Waste Management Workshop that provided practical learning experiences to all participants. The workshop invited two competent speakers: Dr. Wahiduddin, SKM., M.Kes., who is the Vice Dean I of FKM Unhas, and Muh. Fajaruddin Natsir, SKM., M.Kes., who is the lecturer in charge of the Environmental Health Technology course. The speakers provided in-depth presentations on concepts, challenges, and the application of effective and efficient waste processing technologies. This was followed by technical discussions and interactive sessions that substantially enriched the participants’ understanding. Through this workshop, students and other participants are expected to gain applicable skills that can be implemented in their residential environments, organizations, or communities, thus contributing directly to better waste management efforts.
Activity News: Master’s Public Health Students Participate in JITMM 2025 in Bangkok
A total of 18 students from the Master’s Program in Public Health Science participated in the Joint International Tropical Medicine Meeting (JITMM) 2025. The event was held over three days, from December 2 to 4, 2025, at the Eastin Grand Hotel Phayathai, Bangkok, Thailand. The student delegation was accompanied by the Head of the Master’s Program in Public Health Science, Prof. Dr. Ridwan A, SKM., M.Kes., M.Sc.PH.. This international conference brought together academics, researchers, and public health practitioners from various countries to share research, scientific innovations, and global strategies for handling tropical diseases. Daily Activity Highlights Benefits and Expectations Through their participation in JITMM 2025, the Master’s Public Health students gained the opportunity to broaden their scientific knowledge, strengthen international collaborative networks, and understand research ideas as a contribution to the development of public health science. This experience is expected to support the improvement of academic quality, research, and public health implementation in Indonesia.
Advancing Global Healthy City Solutions: Dean of FKM Unhas Attends WHO Forum in Malaysia, Highlights ‘Leadership Turnover’ as the Key Challenge to Sustainable Implementation
Makassar – The Faculty of Public Health, Hasanuddin University (FKM Unhas) continues to expand its academic contribution at the international level, particularly in public health and urban environmental issues. Prof. Sukri Palluturi, Dean of FKM Unhas, received a special invitation to take part and deliver an important presentation at a prestigious event: the WHO Forum for Malaysia, Brunei, and Singapore under the Western Pacific Region Organization (WPRO). Held on November 25–26 at Royale Chulan Penang, George Town, Malaysia, the forum served as a significant meeting platform for policymakers, academics, and health practitioners across the Asia-Pacific. Prof. Sukri’s attendance reflected international recognition of FKM Unhas’ expertise in environmental health and sustainable urban development. The forum specifically focused on strengthening healthy setting arrangements under the AFCC (Alliance for Healthy Cities) initiative in Malaysia, attended by various Asia-Pacific mayors committed to the Healthy Cities vision. Leadership Transition: A Major Barrier to Healthy City Realization During his presentation, Prof. Sukri emphasized the most structural and persistent challenge obstructing sustainable efforts to implement Healthy City initiatives across many countries, including Indonesia. According to the Griffith University Australia alumnus, the core issue lies in: “The most critical challenge in implementing healthy cities is the turnover of regional leaders, such as regents and mayors, which is often followed by changes among OPD (Local Government Work Unit) leadership,” he stated. He explained that political transitions often erase institutional memory relating to healthy city programs. Incoming leaders frequently require a complete reintroduction—from basic concepts to national and international frameworks—resulting in policy uncertainty, disrupted resource allocation, and stalled long-term plans. Three Key Problem Pillars Identified by FKM Unhas Based on an extensive review of literature and field experience across nearly all WHO regions, FKM Unhas identified three major pillars that hinder Healthy City implementation: From a ‘Sick System’ to a Comprehensive Health System The Penang forum also broadened perspectives with aligned international insights. Presenters highlighted that many countries still rely heavily on a “sick system” approach—focusing on treating illness rather than promoting overall health. Prof. Sukri noted that WHO representatives stressed the need for a paradigm shift toward proactive, comprehensive health systems that invest in social and environmental determinants of health instead of solely hospital-based curative services. FKM Unhas’ Strategic Role in Healthy City Solutions Prof. Sukri’s participation demonstrates that FKM Unhas is engaged not only in local research but also in shaping global health policy dialogue. The findings on leadership, knowledge gaps, and inadequate funding are valuable for Indonesian national and regional governments. FKM Unhas can offer sustainable capacity-building programs to ensure consistent understanding of Healthy City principles despite administrative rotation. Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) The Healthy City issues discussed in the forum strongly reflect several SDGs: Conclusion: FKM Unhas’ Forward Agenda for Policy Innovation Prof. Sukri’s involvement reinforces FKM Unhas’ commitment to policy-oriented research with real-world impact. Insights from the WHO WPRO forum will be integrated into academic programs and community service initiatives. Developing a legally grounded Healthy City master plan and continuous capacity-building programs will become FKM Unhas’ priority to ensure sustainable healthy city development, regardless of political dynamics.
Charting the Future of National Nutrition: FKM Unhas Holds Webinar on “Safe, Halal, and Quality Food,” Addressing the Critical Challenges of the Free Nutritious Meals Program (MBG)
MAKASSAR – Amidst the nation’s increasing focus on food security and nutritional quality, a fundamental question arises: how can Indonesia ensure that every child receives meals that are not only nutritious but also safe, adhere to Halal standards, and meet high quality specifications? This critical inquiry transcends mere policy issues; it reflects the deep moral and scientific consciousness of the younger generation toward the nation’s future. From the lecture halls of the Faculty of Public Health (FKM) at Hasanuddin University (Unhas), this spirit materialized into action with a successful National Webinar titled “Safe, Halal, and Quality Food: Challenges of the Free Nutritious Meals Program (MBG)”. The scientific forum, organized by Nutrition Science Students of the FKM Unhas Class of 2023, took place on November 22, 2025, at the ICONS Room, FKM Unhas. The public’s enthusiasm was remarkable, with over 1,120 participants joining the online forum from across Indonesia—from Banda Aceh to Merauke. Attendees included students, academics, health practitioners, nutritionists, and community members. This high turnout demonstrates that the issues of nutrition, food safety, and Halal compliance are no longer just technical domains but have become integral to a growing social awareness among youth and health professionals. FKM Unhas successfully served as a catalyst for this healthy, science-based public discussion. Beyond the Classroom: Knowledge Meets Life and Social Responsibility The atmosphere in the webinar room was vibrant and highly organized from the start, showcasing the professionalism of the student organizing committee. The Head of the Committee, Naila Syakirah, opened the event with a report delivered with conviction and vision. She explained that the activity was born out of deep concern over the persistently low health literacy and food safety awareness, especially amidst the discourse on implementing large-scale public food programs. “We want the knowledge we gain at FKM Unhas not to remain confined to the lecture halls but to provide direct benefits to the nation. This webinar is more than just a discussion forum; it is a space for joint learning and reflection on how the Free Nutritious Meals Program (MBG) policy can be executed without compromising food safety, Halal compliance, and nutritional quality—three critical pillars determining the quality of Indonesia’s human resources in the future,” Naila stated passionately, asserting the active role of Nutrition Science students as agents of change. Nutrition, Halal Integrity, and National Dignity: Voices from Unhas Leadership The initiative received strong institutional backing from the Professor of Nutrition Science at Unhas, Prof. dr. Veny Hadju, M.Sc., Ph.D., who emphasized the crucial need to strengthen national food integrity. “The MBG Program is not simply about providing food quantity. It is about ensuring a generation is born and raised on healthy, Halal, and nutritious intake. That is where the dignity of the nation lies, and it is our responsibility as academics,” Prof. Veny asserted with a calm yet powerful voice. Similar appreciation was expressed by Dr. Wahiduddin, SKM., M.Kes., representing the Dean of FKM Unhas. He conveyed pride in the students for successfully organizing such a nationally relevant academic event. “When students of FKM Unhas speak about nutrition and humanity, that is when the university fulfills its role: producing conscientious and knowledgeable individuals, ready to contribute to public policy,” Dr. Wahiduddin stated. Expert Insights: Interconnecting Science, Ethics, and Policy Three main resource persons presented complementary and comprehensive perspectives, linking policy, religious/ethical dimensions, and nutritional science: Knowledge Fostering Empathy and Literacy The webinar was not a one-way street. Participants were assessed through pre-tests and post-tests consisting of 15 questions measuring their understanding before and after the event. The results showed a significant increase in the level of nutritional literacy and awareness regarding the importance of food safety and Halal compliance. An accompanying Scientific Poster Competition was also held, featuring 19 participants from various universities. The posters conveyed creative messages about safe, Halal, and nutritious food—some evoked emotion, depicting the hopeful faces of Indonesian children awaiting their nutritious meal from government programs. From Unhas to Indonesia: Alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) This initiative by the FKM Unhas Nutrition Science students has a strong and direct correlation with the national commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), positioning Unhas as a driver of sustainable development. Conclusion: A Spoonful of Rice as a Symbol of Hope For the organizing students, this event transcended a mere academic gathering. It was a small, yet significant, step toward social change and cultivating empathy. They believe that nutrition education is not sufficient with just theory; it must be delivered with empathy, executed with responsibility, and translated into tangible action. “This webinar is a form of our love for the nation,” said one of the committee members at the end of the event, eyes sparkling with hope. “We want all Indonesians to know that nutritious food is not a luxury, but the right of every child, whose safety and Halal integrity must be guaranteed.” The event concluded with a joint prayer and a warm photo session. For the participants, especially the young nutrition science generation at Unhas, the spirit has just begun—the drive to continue fighting to ensure that every spoonful of rice consumed by the Indonesian people is a symbol of goodness: safe, Halal, and of high quality, guaranteeing a healthier and more integrated future for the nation.
National Academic Innovation Festival: Unhas Successfully Hosts 38th PIMNAS, FKM Unhas Becomes the Epicenter for PKM-PM Competition and Student Creativity
Makassar – Hasanuddin University (Unhas) has made history by successfully hosting the 38th National Student Scientific Week (Pekan Ilmiah Mahasiswa Nasional – PIMNAS). This highly prestigious national event, which serves as the pinnacle of appreciation and competition for the best student scientific works across Indonesia, was officially inaugurated with a vibrant opening ceremony held on Monday, November 24, starting at 07:30 AM WITA, at the legendary Baruga A.P. Pettarani. The venue was immediately filled with an air of enthusiasm and optimism from delegate students representing the top higher education institutions nationwide. The opening ceremony was particularly spectacular, masterfully blending academic formality with the rich tapestry of Indonesian culture. The atmosphere was enhanced by diverse artistic and cultural performances from across the archipelago, including a fashion show featuring traditional attire from various regions. This display was more than entertainment; it was a profound reflection of the spirit of kebhinekaan (diversity) and unity within the academic world, powerfully asserting that innovation thrives through collaborative diversity. The First Day: Dedication to Scientific Rigor and Logistics The inaugural day of the 38th PIMNAS began with crucial logistical and technical stages. Following the smooth registration process for all participants, teams immediately proceeded to set up their scientific posters and install their presentation files (PPTs) in the competition venues. This meticulous preparation was essential to ensure all teams were ready for the intensive and rigorous judging sessions ahead. Later that same day, the scientific poster judging session took place, showcasing hundreds of innovative student works from various fields of science. These posters served as vibrant showcases for brilliant student ideas, reflecting their abilities in critical thinking, creativity, and their commitment to providing tangible contributions toward solving national challenges through scientific and technological approaches. Solutions ranged across health, appropriate technology, social empowerment, and advanced engineering, all competing head-to-head at Unhas. Inspiration and Motivation: Public Lectures and Champion Mindset Talks Beyond the intense competition sessions, the 38th PIMNAS also featured non-competitive activities designed to enrich the participants’ perspectives and provide motivation. These included a Public Lecture and an Inspirational Talkshow. The Public Lecture featured Miklos Sunario (Co-Founder and CEO of Futurity), an inspirational young entrepreneur who successfully scaled innovation to a global level. Miklos shared invaluable experiences in building technology-based startups and offered insights into how students can effectively transform their research ideas into valuable products or services with high economic and social value. Equally compelling was the Inspirational Talkshow titled “The Secret to Building a Champion Mindset for Generation Z”. This session provided a critical platform for discussion and motivation, encouraging students to not only excel academically but also to develop themselves professionally and personally. Speakers shared strategies for coping with failure, emphasized the importance of mental resilience, and provided techniques for transforming challenges into opportunities—all crucial assets for the next generation of leaders. FKM Unhas: The Epicenter of Community Engagement Innovation One faculty that showed particularly high enthusiasm and served as a strategic location for the 38th PIMNAS was the Faculty of Public Health (FKM) Unhas. Hosting competition events within the FKM environment created a lively atmosphere, strongly emphasizing the spirit of community engagement. FKM Unhas was designated as the venue for the Student Creativity Program in Community Service (Pengabdian kepada Masyarakat – PKM-PM) competition. This category specifically challenges students to not only innovate in the lab but also to directly implement their solutions within the community. The PKM-PM competition took place in Rooms K111 and K112 of FKM Unhas. A total of 17 competing teams from various universities participated in this category, presenting innovative community service programs designed to address real-world social problems. The programs displayed were highly diverse, ranging from health education campaigns, construction of simple clean water infrastructure, to economic empowerment initiatives for coastal communities. Hosting the competition underscored FKM Unhas’s central and active role in driving student-led development based on health and social welfare. Student participants were enthusiastic in showcasing innovations across fields, including public health, appropriate technology, and social empowerment. Each team meticulously presented their best ideas in a creative and solution-oriented manner to the judging panel and visitors, making FKM Unhas the arena for social impact innovation. Expo Side Fest: A Hub for Creativity and Entrepreneurship The 38th PIMNAS was further enlivened by the Expo Side Fest. This expo served as a vibrant meeting place for ideas, innovations, and creativity from the entire academic community. Various exhibition stands from Student Activity Units (UKM), faculties, the Student Entrepreneurship Program (Program Mahasiswa Wirausaha – PMW), and numerous sponsors filled the MKU Platform with diverse featured products and innovative works. The expo showcased a wide array of items, from functional food products resulting from research to digital technology applications for public services, alongside arts and crafts. The Expo Side Fest was open to the public and ran until November 27, which coincided with the closing day and the award ceremony for PIMNAS 38. The expo acted not only as a display but also as an incubator for student entrepreneurial ideas, culminating in the rewarding of the best student works. FKM Unhas’s presence in the Expo Side Fest was also strongly felt, featuring innovations in health and public health-based startups. The 38th PIMNAS and Tangible Contributions to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) The hosting of the 38th PIMNAS at Hasanuddin University, with all its competition categories and related activities, is fundamentally aligned with Indonesia’s commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This event is tangible proof of the strategic role of higher education institutions in developing an excellent, globally competitive generation dedicated to sustainability. Conclusion: Unhas, A Successful Host Cultivating an Innovative Generation Overall, the 38th PIMNAS at Hasanuddin University was not just a competition; it was an intellectual festival that successfully mobilized the creativity of students from across Indonesia. Unhas’s success as the host, especially the pivotal role played by FKM Unhas in organizing the PKM-PM competition, reinforces the university’s reputation as an institution dedicated to community service and sustainable innovation. The award ceremony on the closing day marked a fitting
Forging a Global Footprint: FKM Unhas Contingent Dominates Plenary Sessions at the 11th AHLA Conference in Taichung, Taiwan
Taichung, Taiwan – The Faculty of Public Health (FKM) at Hasanuddin University (Unhas) has once again affirmed its position as a leading academic institution in Indonesia concerning global health issues, particularly in the critical domain of health literacy. FKM Unhas dispatched a large and formidable contingent to actively participate in the 11th Asian Health Literacy Association (AHLA) Conference 2025, held at the Chung Shan Medical University Hospital in Taichung, Taiwan, from November 24 to 25, 2025. This highly prestigious scientific forum served as an essential meeting point for academics, researchers, and practitioners from various countries across Asia, and notably, it also attracted substantial participation from Europe. The presence of Hasanuddin University, represented robustly by FKM, stands as a clear testament to the university’s unwavering commitment to expanding its international academic network and disseminating high-impact research findings relevant to contemporary global health challenges. The conference provided an invaluable platform for FKM Unhas to showcase its scholarly output on a global stage. Contingent Strength and Academic Focus of FKM Unhas The FKM Unhas contingent that travelled to Taichung brought a solid academic force, comprising 3 senior lecturers and 10 postgraduate students. This well-balanced delegation composition underscores the faculty’s strong commitment to actively involving its students in international research dissemination—a key element in shaping future global health leaders. Specifically, the FKM Unhas delegation included: The significant involvement of S2 and S3 students, particularly from the Health Promotion and Behavioral Science concentration, highlights FKM Unhas’s strategic focus on developing public health behavioral science. This field is widely recognized as the fundamental key to effectively enhancing health literacy and fundamentally modifying population behavior, which is essential for sustainable health improvements. Leading Research Dominates the Plenary Session FKM Unhas’s participation in this year’s AHLA Conference was exceptionally prominent, with a total of four scientific articles accepted for presentation. Even more significantly, three of these articles were awarded the prestigious honor of being presented in the plenary session, the main forum attended by all conference participants and considered the most distinguished session of the event. The remaining one article was presented during the poster session. The research papers presented by the delegation addressed highly crucial health issues that have significant national and global impact: The remarkable achievement of having three FKM Unhas works selected for the plenary session is a powerful international recognition of the quality, rigor, and topic relevance of the research conducted by the Faculty of Public Health at Unhas. Strengthening Networking and Postgraduate Education Quality The substantial participation of S2 and S3 students in this international conference provides an immense value-add to the quality of postgraduate education at FKM Unhas. Students not only gained exposure by witnessing presentations from global experts but were also directly immersed in the rigorous international academic environment. This proactive participation perfectly aligns with FKM Unhas’s commitment to achieving key Institutional Performance Indicators (IKU), specifically concerning internationalization and global engagement of its students. Students were actively encouraged to interact with participants from leading universities, establish vital professional networking contacts, and compare their research methodologies with established international standards. This invaluable experience will significantly enrich their theses and dissertations, simultaneously preparing them to become outstanding, globally aware public health researchers and academics. Cross-National Collaboration and Policy Contribution During the inter-session breaks at the Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, FKM Unhas lecturers and students engaged in intensive communication with representatives from various member organizations of the AHLA. These meetings successfully initiated potential pathways for: The research presented, particularly on stunting and HIV, extends beyond mere academic merit; it holds significant potential to influence public policy. For instance, Prof. Suriah’s findings on the literacy of prospective brides can serve as a strong basis for local Health Departments to immediately revise and strengthen their pre-marital education modules in regions like South Sulawesi. Health Literacy and its Link to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) FKM Unhas’s active engagement in the AHLA Conference directly supports the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically those related to health, education, and global partnership. This contribution by FKM Unhas clearly demonstrates that research in the field of Health Promotion holds a central role as one of the most effective non-medical interventions for solving complex health problems, fully aligning with Unhas’s vision as a high-impact World-Class University. Conclusion: The Spirit of Knowledge Dissemination The successful participation of FKM Unhas in the 11th Asian Health Literacy Association Conference in Taichung, Taiwan, is not merely an attendance record, but a powerful affirmation of the quality and global relevance of FKM’s research portfolio. The opportunity to present three articles in the plenary session and one poster is a proud achievement that significantly reinforces the reputation of the Public Health Study Program at FKM Unhas across the Asia-Pacific region. Driven by this spirit of knowledge dissemination, FKM Unhas remains highly optimistic about its ongoing role in building healthier, more educated, and highly health-literate societies in Indonesia and throughout the world.
Resonating in Chiang Rai: 23 FKM Unhas Lecturers Take Center Stage at APACPH 2025, Strengthening Transformative Global Health Research
Chiang Rai, Thailand – The Faculty of Public Health (FKM) at Hasanuddin University (Unhas) once again demonstrated its growing presence in the international academic arena. A total of 23 lecturers from FKM Unhas played a prominent and active role in the prestigious 56th Asia-Pacific Academic Consortium for Public Health (APACPH) Conference 2025, held at Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, from November 4–7, 2025. APACPH is one of the most influential platforms for academics, researchers, and public health practitioners across Asia and the Pacific. This year’s theme, “Public Health Transformation: Resilience, Innovation, and Equity,” challenged the public health community to adapt, innovate, and ensure equitable access to health services in an increasingly complex global landscape. The large delegation from FKM Unhas underscores the faculty’s strong commitment to advancing transformative public health research. Strategic Dissemination of Scientific Work: Addressing Critical Health Issues The FKM Unhas delegation contributed not only as participants but also as presenters in both oral and poster sessions. Their presentations highlighted the depth and breadth of research carried out within the faculty, covering almost the entire spectrum of public health issues with a focus on key challenges faced by Indonesia and the Asia-Pacific region. Topics presented included: Several studies were developed through national and international collaborations reinforcing the idea that solving global health challenges requires collective and interdisciplinary efforts. Strengthening Global Competitiveness and Supporting Unhas’ Key Performance Indicators Dean of FKM Unhas, Prof. Sukri Palutturi, SKM., M.Sc.PH., Ph.D., emphasized that this extensive participation is part of the faculty’s strategic agenda. According to him, attending APACPH 2025 serves dual purposes: enhancing global competitiveness and expanding international academic networks. “Active participation in APACPH is a concrete manifestation of our commitment to achieving the University’s Key Performance Indicators (IKU), particularly in internationalization, global academic reputation, and cross-country research collaboration,” he stated. Institutional support from Unhas—through academic facilitation, administrative assistance, and funding—played a vital role in ensuring lecturers could present their work effectively and elevate Unhas’ global standing. FKM Unhas’ presence in international forums is an important step toward strengthening the institution’s reputation as a world-class university. Building International Research Collaboration Beyond presentations, FKM Unhas lecturers also engaged in strategic discussions with prominent APACPH member universities. Notable meetings included representatives from: These discussions explored concrete plans for: Such initiatives reinforce FKM Unhas’ position as a leading public health institution in Indonesia with a strong commitment to shaping global health research and policy. FKM Unhas’ Contribution to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) FKM Unhas’ involvement in APACPH 2025 significantly supports several Sustainable Development Goals: This participation reflects the faculty’s commitment to contributing not only to national development but also to global health equity and sustainability. Toward Transforming Public Health in the Asia-Pacific Region The success of the FKM Unhas delegation at APACPH 2025 marks a significant milestone. It represents not just the number of participating lecturers but also the quality of their research contributions and global collaborations. FKM Unhas aims to continue positioning itself as a center of excellence in public health, driven by the spirit of resilience, innovation, and equity. By translating research findings into effective public health policies and collaborating across borders, FKM Unhas is committed to enhancing the health and well-being of communities in Indonesia and the Asia-Pacific region. This active global engagement is a long-term investment in Unhas’ vision to become a world-class university with meaningful international impact.
Realizing the Vision of a Globally Healthy Campus: Forma Kesmas FKM Unhas Initiates Critical Discussion on “Optimizing Smoke-Free Campus Policies”
Makassar – The commitment to creating a healthy and smoke-free academic environment continues to be strengthened at Hasanuddin University (Unhas). As a leading initiator, the Public Health Student Forum (Forma Kesmas) of the Faculty of Public Health (FKM) successfully organized a highly relevant public discussion titled “Optimizing Policies: Building a Smoke-Free Healthy Campus.” The event was held on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at the Prof. Dr. Nasry Noor Room, FKM Unhas. It served as an important platform to evaluate the effectiveness of the Smoke-Free Area (KTR) policy and to outline concrete actions for better implementation. Enthusiasm for the smoke-free campus agenda was evident through broad participation: 25 participants attended in person, 45 joined via Zoom, and the livestream on TikTok attracted 184 viewers. Representatives from various student organizations such as BEM and MAPERWA along with faculty and university leaders, were present, underscoring that KTR enforcement is a collective responsibility. Strong Leadership Support: A Healthy Campus Is More Than a Slogan The event opened with a firm statement from the chair of Forma Kesmas, emphasizing that this discussion was not ceremonial but a real commitment to strengthening KTR enforcement. MAPERWA representatives echoed this, highlighting that smoking issues are a shared moral responsibility, not merely the task of specific units. Support also came from the FKM Dean, who praised the sustained student efforts since KTR was first initiated two decades ago. The Dean stressed that “a healthy campus is not simply a slogan but a culture that must be upheld there is no compromise for violating KTR.” He also emphasized the importance of courage in reminding violators, underscoring that every academic community member has a moral duty to protect smoke-free zones. The Vice-Rector II reaffirmed the university’s commitment to the healthy campus vision, while acknowledging the challenges of monitoring an open campus like Unhas. Strategic actions planned by the Rectorate include: Survey Findings and Concrete Recommendations April, representing Forma Kesmas, presented internal survey results on the effectiveness of KTR implementation at Unhas. The findings were concerning: 70.2% of students believed the KTR policy was not effectively enforced, mainly due to inconsistent monitoring and low awareness among the academic community. Based on these findings, three key recommendations were proposed: Expert Insights: Cross-Sector Collaboration and Socio-Economic Challenges Experts Dr. Mugi and Prof. Ridwan emphasized that smoking issues cannot be solved solely through regulation; they require collaboration across sectors and strong community engagement. Dr. Mugi highlighted that smoking is not only an individual choice but also a public health and socio-economic issue. The KTR policy protects public health especially passive smokers who deserve clean air. Prof. Ridwan proposed a symbolic and collective declaration of “Smoke-Free Unhas,” signed by university leaders and student representatives. He also stressed the urgency of forming a dedicated enforcement task force with full authority. Both experts agreed that lasting change begins with shared awareness followed by consistent enforcement. KTR and FKM Unhas’ Commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) The discussion directly supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being. Promoting a smoke-free campus contributes to reducing premature deaths from non-communicable diseases and improving mental health. A smoke-free environment not only protects physical health but also creates supportive conditions for learning—aligned with SDG 4: Quality Education. Moreover, this initiative reflects SDG 17: Partnerships, as it involves collaboration among students, faculty, and university leadership. Conclusion: Building Awareness and Consistent Enforcement The event concluded with a strong message: building a smoke-free campus requires more than regulations—it demands long-term cultural change and collective responsibility. With clear support from university leaders and student-driven, data-based recommendations, the vision for a Healthy Unhas Campus is achievable. The success depends on consistent enforcement and active participation from all members of the academic community. Forma Kesmas’ initiative stands as an inspiring example of how student actions can drive impactful policy change that benefits public health.